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American Samoa Government - PR001-05282025
Posted: May 28, 2025
American Samoa Commemorates Memorial Day 2025:
A Day to Remember and Honor
The Territory of American Samoa observed Memorial Day 2025 with solemn reverence and heartfelt tribute, marking the first such commemoration under the administration of Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr.
The day began at dawn as Governor Pulaali'i and First Lady Lois Phillips-Pula led a series of wreath-laying ceremonies at significant sites across the island. Their first stop was at the Satala Cemetery, honoring those who served and sacrificed. They then proceeded to the Tramway site, the location of a tragic military flyover crash during the 1980 Flag Day celebration. The final tribute took place at the ocean, a symbolic gesture remembering those lost at sea in service to the nation.
Later in the morning, a formal Memorial Day ceremony was held at the Veterans Memorial Center. Military personnel, government leaders, and members of the community gathered to pay their respects. The ceremony featured a wreath-laying segment and heartfelt reflections in honor of fallen heroes.
In his keynote address, Governor Pulaali'i emphasized the enduring value of service and sacrifice, stating "We must always remember that freedom is not free. The liberties we enjoy today are built on the courage and sacrifices of those who came before us. Their legacies must live on through us."
He went on to share his personal connection to military service, noting that members of his own family, including his children, are currently serving in active duty. "It is not easy," he acknowledged, "but with faith, hope, and our unwavering trust in God, their purpose and our support will guide them home."
The commemoration concluded with the unveiling of the Toa o Amerika Samoa Wall of Honor - a powerful tribute bearing the names of fallen sons and daughters of American Samoa who gave their lives in service to the United States. This wall was created as a service-learning project by the cadets of the Tafuna High School JROTC, whose dedication and effort brought this lasting memorial to life.
The names honored on the Wall of Honor are:
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Specialist Farao Kevin Letufuga
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Private Jonathan Ioakimo Falaniko
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Staff Sergeant Salamo Tuialu’ulu’u
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Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Sifoa Loa
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Sergeant Raymon S. Sevaaetasi
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Private First Class Timothy Ray Vimoto
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Sergeant Lui Tumanuvao
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Sergeant Tina Safaira Time
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Lieutenant Colonel Max Galea’i
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Staff Sergeant Ioasa F. Tava’e Jr.
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Staff Sergeant Loleni W. Gandy
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Staff Sergeant Frank Faga Tiai
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First Lieutenant Jason Togi
As the Territory reflected on the solemn meaning of Memorial Day, Governor Pulaali'i called upon all citizens to pause, remember, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of freedom.